For example, it prohibits discriminatory tariffs based on nationality or residence of the recipient of the service. The Directive aims to promote high quality services and to enhance accountability and transparency of information on providers and their services.

The Directive establishes a general legal framework for services provided against payment. It does not include non-economic services of general interest, financial services (including those relating to banking, credit, insurance and reinsurance, individual pensions or pensions at firm level, bonds, investment funds and payments), electronic payment services (as those matters are governed by specific directives), transport services (including port services), services of temporary work agencies, health care, audiovisual services, gambling activities, activities related to the exercise of public authority, some social services (relating to social housing, child care and assistance to people in need), private security services provided by notaries and bailiffs, etc.